Republic of the Philippines

City of Taguig

Taguig City University

A.Y. 2022-2023
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan Taguig City

CASE ANALYSIS
A Beautiful Mind

I. Introduction.

The main character of "A Beautiful Mind," played masterfully by Russell Crowe, is John

Forbes Nash Jr. Nash, a talented mathematician, struggles with paranoid schizophrenia. The movie

delves into his extraordinary mind, showcasing his groundbreaking contributions to game

theory. Despite his professional success, Nash grapples with the intricate labyrinth of his own

thoughts and emotions as he navigates the complexities of living with a severe mental health

condition. The narrative unfolds as Nash contends with the impact of schizophrenia on his

career, relationships, and personal identity, providing a poignant exploration of the human

mind's resilience and vulnerability. Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that affects a

person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. While there are multiple symptoms linked to

schizophrenia, the most common include hallucinations, delusions, and difficulties

concentrating. An individual suffering from schizophrenia may experience severe and long-

lasting mental health problems. A person can die from this illness if they don't receive the right

care.

II. Client Profile

a. Name : John Nash Jr.

b. Age : Middle Age

 Republic of the Philippines
City of Taguig

Taguig City University

A.Y. 2022-2023
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan Taguig City

c. Sex : Male

d. Civil Status : John Nash gets married to Alicia Larde, portrayed by Jennifer

Connelly. The film follows their relationship, the challenges they face due to Nash's

struggles with schizophrenia, and the support Alicia provides him.

III. Family History

John Forbes Nash Jr. was born in Bluefields, West Virginia in 1928, the son of John Forbes

Nash Sr. worked, an electrical engineer for the Appalachian Electric Power Company, and

Margaret Virginia (née Martin), who had been a schoolteacher before she married. In 1930, he

got a sister named Martha.

IV. Personal History

John Nash, portrayed in "A Beautiful Mind," was a renowned mathematician who made significant

contributions to the field of game theory. Born on June 13, 1928, in Bluefield, West Virginia,

Nash showed early signs of his mathematical prowess. He attended Princeton University, where

he earned his Ph.D. in mathematics. His groundbreaking work in game theory earned him the

Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1994. However, Nash's life was marked by periods of mental

health challenges, specifically schizophrenia.

 Republic of the Philippines
City of Taguig

Taguig City University

A.Y. 2022-2023
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan Taguig City

The movie depicts Nash's struggles with this mental illness, his relationships, and his journey to

overcome the difficulties posed by schizophrenia. It highlights his marriage to Alicia Larde and

their enduring bond despite the challenges. The film also addresses Nash's academic achievements,

his interactions with colleagues, and the impact of his groundbreaking theories on economics

and mathematics.

Nash's story is one of resilience, as he managed to continue his work and lead a fulfilling life

despite the persistent challenges posed by his mental health. The real John Nash and his wife Alicia

tragically died in a car accident in 2015.

V. Literature review

Schizophrenia is a chronic psychiatric disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and

behaves. Common early signs of schizophrenia vary by age group and include Young children:

Delayed development Older kids and teens: Depression, isolation, behavioral problems (e.g.,

stealing) or changes (e.g., bizarre or unusual thoughts or actions), and trouble focusing Adults :

Restlessness, anxiety, low energy, not taking care of oneself (e.g., personal hygiene), decrease in

work performance, suicidal thoughts, and social withdrawal.

 Republic of the Philippines
City of Taguig

Taguig City University

A.Y. 2022-2023
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan Taguig City

Schizophrenia usually develops slowly, with early warning signs starting before the first

severe episode. Knowing these warning signs can help a healthcare provider diagnose

schizophrenia sooner and make sure that a person living with the condition gets the care and

support that they need.

The time during which the early warning signs of schizophrenia are experienced is called the

prodromal stage. The onset of schizophrenia can last from months to years. The first signs of

schizophrenia can be different depending on how old a person is when the disorder develops.

The age at which someone develops schizophrenia is thought to influence the symptoms they

will have. Even though men and women have roughly similar rates of schizophrenia, they tend

to develop the condition at slightly different ages.

Schizophrenia involves a range of problems with thinking (cognition), behavior and emotions.

Signs and symptoms may vary, but usually involve delusions, hallucinations or disorganized

speech, and reflect an impaired ability to function. Symptoms may include:

● Delusions.

These are false beliefs that are not based in reality. For example, you think that you're being harmed

or harassed; certain gestures or comments are directed at you; you have exceptional ability or fame;
 Republic of the Philippines
City of Taguig

Taguig City University

A.Y. 2022-2023
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan Taguig City

another person is in love with you; or a major catastrophe is about to occur. Delusions occur in

most people with schizophrenia.

● Hallucinations.

These usually involve seeing or hearing things that don't exist. Yet for the person with

schizophrenia, they have the full force and impact of a normal experience. Hallucinations can be

in any of the senses, but hearing voices is the most common hallucination.

● Disorganized thinking (speech).

Disorganized thinking is inferred from disorganized speech. Effective communication can be

impaired, and answers to questions may be partially or completely unrelated. Rarely, speech

may include putting together meaningless words that can't be understood, sometimes known as

word salad.

● Extremely disorganized or abnormal motor behavior.

This may show in a number of ways, from childlike silliness to unpredictable agitation. Behavior

isn't focused on a goal, so it's hard to do tasks. Behavior can include resistance to instructions,

inappropriate or bizarre posture, a complete lack of response, or useless and excessive

movement.
 Republic of the Philippines
City of Taguig

Taguig City University

A.Y. 2022-2023
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan Taguig City

● Negative symptoms.

This refers to reduced or lack of ability to function normally. For example, the person may

neglect personal hygiene or appear to lack emotion (doesn't make eye contact, doesn't change

facial expressions or speaks in a monotone). Also, the person may lose interest in everyday

activities, socially withdraw or lack the ability to experience pleasure.

Symptoms can vary in type and severity over time, with periods of worsening and remission of

symptoms. Some symptoms may always be present. In men, schizophrenia symptoms typically

start in the early to mid-20s. In women, symptoms typically begin in the late 20s. It's uncommon

for children to be diagnosed with schizophrenia and rare for those older than age 45.

Schizophrenia is a complex mental disorder characterized by a range of symptoms, including

hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and impaired social functioning. It is believed

to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurochemical factors. The exact

cause of schizophrenia is still not fully understood, but research suggests that abnormalities in

brain structure and function, as well as imbalances in neurotransmitters, play a role in its

development. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms and

improve the quality of life for individuals with schizophrenia.

 Republic of the Philippines
City of Taguig

Taguig City University

A.Y. 2022-2023
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan Taguig City

VI. Intervention

John Nash Jr., the renowned mathematician and Nobel laureate, was diagnosed with schizophrenia

in the 1950s. His life and treatment were depicted in the movie "A Beautiful Mind."

some general interventions and therapies commonly used in the treatment of schizophrenia, which

may have been part of his treatment plan:

Medication

Antipsychotic medications are typically prescribed to manage the symptoms of schizophrenia.

These medications help reduce hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. It is likely

that John Nash Jr. received antipsychotic medication as part of his treatment.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), may have been utilized to help John

Nash Jr. manage his symptoms and develop coping strategies. CBT can assist individuals in

challenging and modifying distorted thoughts and behaviors associated with schizophrenia.
 Republic of the Philippines
City of Taguig

Taguig City University

A.Y. 2022-2023
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan Taguig City

The main type of talking therapy recommended for the treatment of schizophrenia is Cognitive

Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps you identify and change any negative thoughts or

behavior that is making your life hard.

CBT aims to help you:

● cope with symptoms of psychosis such as delusions or hearing voices

● ease stress so your symptoms don't get worse

● manage any side effects from medication

● cope with other problems like social anxiety and depression, which people

with schizophrenia may also experience.

Social support

Having a strong support system is crucial for individuals with schizophrenia. Family therapy and

support groups may have played a role in providing emotional support, education, and guidance

to John Nash Jr. and his loved ones.

 Republic of the Philippines
City of Taguig

Taguig City University

A.Y. 2022-2023
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan Taguig City

Rehabilitation programs

Psychosocial rehabilitation programs aim to improve daily functioning and quality of life for

individuals with schizophrenia. These programs may include vocational training, social skills

training, and assistance with independent living skills.

Continuity of care

Consistent and ongoing treatment is essential for managing schizophrenia. Regular appointments

with mental health professionals, medication management, and monitoring of symptoms are

crucial components of long-term care.

VII. Conclusion

“A Beautiful Mind" skillfully weaves together Nash's mathematical genius, his personal

relationships, and the devastating impact of his mental illness. It explores the complexities of

Nash's mind, showcasing his moments of brilliance alongside the haunting delusions and

hallucinations that plague him. The film not only sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals

with mental illness but also challenges societal stigmas and misconceptions surrounding mental

health.

John Nash Jr. continues with his current treatment plan, which includes regular medication

management and psychotherapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) may be beneficial in

helping him challenge and modify distorted thoughts and behaviors associated with his illness.
 Republic of the Philippines
City of Taguig

Taguig City University

A.Y. 2022-2023
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan Taguig City

Additionally, ongoing support from family and close associates is crucial for his well-being and

recovery.

John Nash Jr.'s life, as depicted in the movie "A Beautiful Mind," provides a powerful

portrayal of the impact of schizophrenia on an individual's life. The assessment findings confirm

his diagnosis of schizophrenia and highlight the importance of ongoing treatment, including

medication management and psychotherapy. With appropriate support and treatment, John Nash

Jr. has shown remarkable resilience and the ability to lead a fulfilling life despite the challenges

posed by his mental illness.

To those who have or are battling with schizophrenia, you are not alone. Schizophrenia can

be a challenging and isolating experience, but it is important to remember that there is hope and

support available. You are not defined by your illness, and with the right treatment and support,

you can lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Remember that you are more than your illness. You have unique talents, strengths, and

qualities that make you who you are. Don't let your illness define you or limit your potential.

With perseverance, resilience, and the right support, you can overcome the challenges of

schizophrenia and live a fulfilling and meaningful life.